Rashod Bateman is setting high expectations for the Baltimore Ravens’ passing game in 2025, highlighting the impact of DeAndre Hopkins and Zay Flowers as key weapons. As the Ravens prepare for the upcoming season, Bateman believes opposing defenses will struggle to contain their combined talent.
With Hopkins joining the team and Flowers coming off a Pro Bowl season, the Ravens’ receiver group is shaping up to be an overwhelming force in the league.
Confidence in Hopkins and Flowers as game-changing threats
Bateman praised the unique skill set Hopkins brings, expressing confidence in his continued success.
“I ain’t never seen a receiver like him, you know, I know he’ll continue, you know, to shine and bring his element to the game,”
Bateman shared during “The Lounge” podcast.
He also noted the growing demand for teams to field multiple dominant receiving threats, emphasizing the challenge Hopkins adds.
“And honestly, but now a lot of people, they want two dominant receivers and tight ends, and now having D-Hop come in and doing his thing is, I mean, we say it every year, it’s gonna be tough to guard,”
Bateman said.
Changing Baltimore’s historical identity on offense
The Ravens have long been known for their defense-first approach and rushing offense, but Bateman wants to shift that perception by elevating the receiving game.
“I wanted to change the narrative about receivers here,”
he said on “The Insiders.”
“And I truly believe we’re heading in the right direction to do just that.”
Baltimore’s offense is also benefiting from Hopkins’ veteran presence, which Bateman described as “fantastic” and a “resource we’re all learning from.” This mentorship is helping a young core of receivers improve and grow.
Supporting cast and team developments bolstering the offense
Off the field, the Ravens upgraded their defense by acquiring All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander, a move Bateman believes will ultimately help their offense by challenging opposing offenses more effectively.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson, coming off his best season with 4,172 passing yards and 41 touchdowns, appears more explosive entering the offseason. Bateman observed that Jackson is “leaner, faster, more locked in,” warning the rest of the league to be ready for his continued impact.
Outlook for the upcoming season
Bateman’s breakout 2024 season, highlighted by 756 yards and nine touchdowns on just 45 receptions, coincided with his three-year contract extension signed in June. Despite last year’s playoff loss to Buffalo, the Ravens aim to build on their strengths and deepen their offensive threat with multiple weapons.
With Hopkins and Flowers both poised to challenge defenses, and Bateman firmly entrenched as a top target, Baltimore’s receiving unit could prove among the most difficult to defend in 2025.